When berries beckon in the spring
and summer, it’s time to buy them fresh. It’s also a good idea to stock frozen
berries year-round for their health benefits and delicious taste. Berries
contain antioxidants called anthocyanins, which are anti-inflammatory compounds
that may boost heart health and keep you mentally sharp. The high fiber content
in berries can help your digestive system. Berries satiate you, so they can aid
in weight control. Incorporate berries in your daily diet in meals or snacks
for their health benefits, taste, and visual appeal.

Honey

Honey, one of the oldest sweeteners known to man, is an
important staple for your healthy kitchen. Buy raw and unfiltered honey, to get
the maximum nutritional benefits. Although it’s anti-bacterial, fat-free, and
sodium-free, honey is high in fructose, so it should be consumed sparingly,
especially for people monitoring their sugar intake. Honey makes an excellent
cough syrup; it’s an energy-booster and can enhance athletic performance; it
can be used to treat wounds and ulcers; it can reduce dandruff; and honey can
control allergy symptoms. Warning: Never give infants honey out of the bottle
due to risk of botulism.

1Garlic

Part of the onion family, garlic is not only a tasty food
flavoring, but it has been cultivated and consumed for its health benefits for
centuries. It’s best eaten in its raw state or semi-cooked to get the maximum
health benefits. Garlic has high levels of a Sulphur compound called Allicin,
which has antioxidant properties to help lower cholesterol and regulate blood
pressure and blood sugar levels. It helps to keep the digestive system free of
toxins and helps to build immunity against colds and the flu. Note that garlic
is not recommended for asthma patients. Others will benefit from its
low-calorie count and high levels of Vitamin C and other vitamins.